Steven Panelli
IAPMO President

PRESIDENT'S WELCOME MESSAGE

It is my great pleasure to extend an invitation to you to attend IAPMO’s 2025 Annual Education and Business Conference, Sept. 14-18 at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, nestled in the heart of Southern California’s historic Palm Desert. The IAPMO conference is an event that I personally look forward to each year, not only for the opportunity it provides to learn and exchange ideas but also for the chance to celebrate the continued growth and success of our incredible association. It is both my honor and great privilege to once again preside over this important gathering, where we come together to not only share knowledge and advance innovation, but also to strengthen the professional bonds that make our industry thrive.

This year, we are excited that our conference will again be co-located with ASSE International’s Annual Meeting and ARCSA International’s Conference. This presents a unique opportunity to interact with an even broader cross-section of professionals in the sanitation, water reuse, and building industries. By bringing together IAPMO members with those from ASSE and ARCSA, we are creating a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives and expertise can intersect.

This year’s conference promises to be one of the most impactful yet. As we all know, IAPMO has always been at the forefront of responding to the evolving needs of our industry. From regulatory changes to the latest in technological advancements, the conference will delve deep into the issues that matter most to you and your work. With educational seminars, presentations, and interactive sessions featuring leading experts, you will have direct access to the latest developments in the field.

A key component of this year’s conference will be the Association Technical Meeting Convention, where we will advance development of the 2027 Uniform Codes. This is a critical part of our work, ensuring that our codes remain relevant and effective as the industry evolves. During this convention, you’ll have the chance to participate in discussions and contribute to the development of our codes in the interest of public health, safety, and sustainability. As always, your input in this process is crucial to ensuring that we create the best possible standards for the future.

However, while the educational sessions and technical discussions are certainly a cornerstone of this event, I encourage you to remember that some of the most valuable takeaways may not be found on the official agenda. The true power of this conference lies in the connections you will make with your peers and colleagues. It is in the moments of spontaneous collaboration, mentorship, and shared enthusiasm that some of the most meaningful opportunities for growth and development arise. Whether it’s an informal conversation during a coffee break, a chance meeting in the hallway, or a shared meal with a fellow professional, these moments of connection can be just as transformative as any formal presentation.

This year’s gathering will provide ample opportunities to engage with a wide array of professionals from all corners of the industry, including architects, engineers, contractors, manufacturers, and code officials. As we navigate an increasingly complex regulatory environment and face new challenges related to sustainability, technology, and safety, it is critical that we continue to engage in open dialogue and work together to find solutions. IAPMO’s conference is a unique space where those conversations can happen, and where your input and perspectives are not only welcomed but encouraged.

I hope you will take full advantage of everything this year’s conference has to offer. Thank you for being part of this journey. I am truly excited about the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and to welcome new ones to the IAPMO family. It is through your ongoing commitment and participation that we are able to create a conference that is truly impactful and meaningful. Let’s come together to share our knowledge, celebrate our achievements, and prepare for another year of success and progress in our industry. I look forward to seeing you in Palm Springs this September! 

Scott Bloom
Veteran Comedian, Television Personality, and Professional Emcee 

A professional comedian, author, podcast host and tv personality who has built a reputation as the go-to choice for business humor, Scott Bloom has hosted hundreds of events over the span of two decades for big and small organizations alike. 
 
As the son of a successful salesman, he was exposed to the principles of building a business at an early age. As a comedian, Bloom cut his teeth at renowned improv and comedy clubs. And as a self-taught student of psychology, he’s explored what makes people tick and has written a book (albeit one he calls “a farce”) on how to get through life. He’s uniquely positioned to deliver significant concepts on connecting people, building relationships and making business seriously funny.  

As a sought-after corporate entertainer and speaker, Bloom has been fortunate to speak in front of many of the world’s leading companies, many hiring him again and again. Drawing on his years of success, his insightful and entertaining presentation will showcase how to create powerful connections.